Mortgage Goals for 2026: Three Money Moves to Start the Year Strong

Happy New Year. If you have been thinking about fresh mortgage goals for 2026, this is a good time to line up a few practical wins.

A New Year’s resolution can be the nudge that gets things moving. You might be aiming to buy your first home. You might want to reduce repayments. Or you might be ready to use the equity you have built.

And honestly, 2025 did not do too badly. We saw three RBA rate cuts, a wave of first-home buyer schemes announced, and national property prices rose by 8.7%. That sets the scene nicely for the three goals below.

Mortgage goal: break into the property market

If you have been trying to buy your first home for a while, the timing could be kinder than you think.

There are government schemes that may help you purchase with less than the usual 20% deposit. That can cut the time it takes to get a foot in the door.

For starters, in October last year, the federal government expanded the Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS). That change means all first home buyers are now eligible to buy with as little as a 5% deposit, and not pay lenders' mortgage insurance.

Then in December, the federal government launched its long-awaited Help to Buy shared equity scheme.

Under that scheme, eligible buyers only need a 2% deposit. From there, the government contributes up to 40% of the purchase price for a new home, and up to 30% for an existing home. In return, the government takes an equity stake in the property.

On top of that, you may also qualify for state and territory first-home owner grants and stamp duty concessions. When you stack these options together, you might already be closer than you think.

If this goal is on your list, get in touch, and we will help you crunch the numbers.

Mortgage goal for 2026: use your home equity as a springboard

This mortgage goal is worth a look if your property value has climbed.

National property prices have increased 8.7% over the past 12 months. Over the same period, we experienced three RBA cash rate cuts, resulting in lower interest rates compared to a year ago.

That combo can open doors. You may be able to refinance to a lower interest rate, access some of the equity you have built, and still keep your loan structure sensible.

Depending on your situation, that equity could help you invest in an investment property, buy shares, or fund a renovation.

If your goal is to grow your wealth, contact us for a clearer view of your home’s potential equity and how you could use it.

Mortgage goal for 2026: refinance for a sharper rate and better features

The mortgage market is still competitive after three rate cuts in 2025. Some lenders have recently trimmed their variable home loan rates, so it is worth checking where you stand.

If you have had the same loan for a while, there is a real chance you could qualify for a lower rate. Many people do not realise how quickly their loan can drift out of date.

Refinancing to a more competitively priced loan could put money back in your pocket during 2026 and beyond. It can also help you swap into features that suit your needs better, like an offset account or more flexible repayments.

Contact us today for a home loan review. Another RBA rate cut this year is looking less likely, but you can still create a rate cut of your own by refinancing.

Make your 2026 Plan Feel a Lot More Doable With Osinski Finance 

If you want help turning these mortgage goals into a real plan, speak with Osinski Finance. We support first home buyers, help you secure the right home loan, and guide you if you are investing in a property. We can also review your current loan, compare lenders, and help you refinance or use equity in a way that suits your next move.

Reach out today, and we will walk you through your options, step by step.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute tax or financial advice, whether general or personal, nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to your circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced or republished without prior written consent.